Getting physical: Material mechanics is an intrinsic cell cue

Advances in biomaterial science have allowed for unprecedented insight into the ability of material cues to influence stem cell function. These material approaches better recapitulate the microenvironment, providing a more realistic ex vivo model of the cell niche. However, recent advances in our ability to measure and manipulate niche properties in vivo have led to novel mechanobiological studies in model organisms. Thus, in this review, we will discuss the importance of material cues within the cell niche, highlight the key mechanotransduction pathways involved, and conclude with recent evidence that material cues regulate tissue function in vivo.

Automated summary

Advances in biomaterial science have improved our understanding of how material cues impact stem cell function. These approaches provide more realistic models of the cell niche and have led to novel mechanobiological studies in model organisms. This review discusses the importance of material cues within the cell niche, highlights key mechanotransduction pathways, and presents recent evidence of material cues regulating tissue function in vivo.